Protections under Title IX in College Park
Title IX is a federal statute that protects individuals in a university community from gender-based discrimination, sexual assault, and harassment. Educational institutions that receive federal financial assistance are required to abide by Title IX regulations to keep their funding.
Knowing exactly who is protected by Title IX policies can be beneficial if you are entering into a collegiate community. If you are unsure of your protections under Title IX, or if you are the subject of an investigation or violation, contact a College park attorney today.
Title IX Violations
Academic institutions that receive financial assistance from the federal government must employ a Title IX coordinator. The purpose of a Title IX coordinator is to ensure that policies are in place to prevent against Title IX violations. If a student or faculty member suspects that a Title IX violation has occurred, they have the right to take legal action against the institution.
Students Protected by Title IX
Under Title IX, students enrolled in universities or colleges that receive federal financial assistance are protected. If a student has experienced discrimination based upon their sex, or experienced sexual assault or sexual harassment, their rights are protected under Title IX. All affected students can go through the university’s internal process to find a resolution, file a formal complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, file a lawsuit, or all of the above. Students who have had a Title IX violation committed against them by another student on campus could also report their incident to law enforcement as well, as separate investigations can coincide according to these regulations.
Faculty and Staff Protected by Title IX
College and university faculty and staff members also receive protection under Title IX. Faculty and staff whose chances for job advancement or opportunities are adversely impacted due to gender or sex discrimination may file a complaint under Title IX. Also, faculty and staff members who have experienced sexual discrimination or are the victims of sexual abuse or misconduct can proceed with legal action.
How Does Title IX Affect Student-Athletes?
Title IX protections extend to College Park student-athletes in athletic programs that receive federal funding and assistance and those which are categorized as an educational activity or program. Title IX prohibits depriving either male or female participants equal opportunities to participate in sports. Institutions must give out scholarships fairly and equally between female and male students, basing the scholarship amount solely on their participation in the sport. A local attorney could further explain how female athletes are protected by Title IX regulations.
A College Park Attorney Could Further Discuss Title IX Protections
Title IX allegations have certain time frames during which individuals must file complaints and lawsuits. An individual must file a Title IX complaint within 180 days from the date of the alleged incident. However, under some circumstances, that time period may be extended.
Colleges and universities must also act quickly to investigate all Title IX complaints and notify law enforcement when appropriate. Students, faculty, and staff are all protected by Title IX, and Title IX protects those who make complaints against institutions from retaliation by the institution.
If you or a loved one is the subject of a Title IX investigation or violation, you should speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. If you are unsure of who is protected by Title IX in College Park, set up a consultation with an attorney today.